Entering MLB free agency, Houston Astros veteran Framber Valdez was seen by many as the best pitcher available. Yet, as we near Christmas, the two-time All-Star remains on the open market because of his current asking price. However, The Athletic’s Jim Bowden predicts that when he does put pen to paper on a contract, it will be with the New York Mets.
“Mets president David Stearns is philosophically opposed to expensive, long-term contracts for starting pitchers, but if the Mets want to be competitive in 2026, it’s important they improve their rotation and have someone who can lead the staff,” the veteran MLB insider wrote. “Valdez can do just that. He’s a ground ball machine who misses bats and has proven he can pitch in big games.”
With the Mets seeming like the current favorite to sign Valdez, let’s take a look at the most likely landing spots for the talented pitcher this offseason, including New York.
Baltimore Orioles
This has been a very productive offseason for the Baltimore Orioles, and they made their biggest splash yet when they signed Mets home run king Pete Alonso. Rumors persist that they are not done making big moves. They could really use a proven arm to lead their rotation in 2026, and Valdez would make a lot of sense as their next major addition this winter.
New York Mets
The Mets have several goals this offseason, but one of the most prominent is finding an All-Star-level player to lead their rotation next season. They have been linked to potential trades for Tarik Skubal and Freddy Peralta, but in a deal with Valdez, all they would give up is money instead of elite prospects. While they could really use him, there is reason for doubt that they will bend to his demand for a pact of five years or more.
Philadelphia Phillies
The Philadelphia Phillies achieved their top goal of the offseason when they were able to re-sign Kyle Schwarber. There is a real chance they will lose Ranger Suarez in free agency. So, they will need to replace him, and it would not be surprising if the Phils did so by going after the best pitcher left on the open market.
Detroit Tigers
Various rumors and reports have pointed to the Detroit Tigers trading top star and ace Tarik Skubal this offseason. However, there are still some around the sport that believe they will hold on to him and make one more run at a World Series. Which means they could add talent to bolster their chances.
If they are willing to pay the price, going after Framber Valdez makes a ton of sense. He would make a fantastic one-two rotation punch with Skubal, but could then slot in as their ace in 2027 when the AL Cy Young leaves in free agency next year.
San Francisco Giants
The San Francisco Giants have been fairly quiet again this offseason. But it isn’t from a lack of trying. They are willing to spend and know they need more to better compete with division juggernaut’s the Los Angeles Dodgers, in 2026 and beyond. Their rotation needs help, and Valdez could be a huge difference-maker every five days.
